Charleston Leader Accused of Grooming Teens | Chicago News

A trusted community hero turned accused predator: Charles McKenzie, 37, founder of Englewood First Responders and a Chicago Public Schools counselor, faces felony charges for allegedly sexually assaulting and grooming two teenage girls over seven years. Accusations began in 2019 with a 14-year-old at a youth center, and another assault allegedly occurred in 2026 involving the first girl’s relative. Both victims reported abuse to their mothers, but authorities didn’t act immediately. Despite his public role in violence prevention and city-funded programs, McKenzie reportedly denied the claims while confusingly acknowledging himself and one victim in a screenshot. His attorney remains silent, and his organization is unreachable. CPS says student safety is paramount but won’t comment. McKenzie is jailed and returns to court August 26 — sparking urgent questions about oversight and protection for vulnerable youth. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/06995f8bf78d4ed0